For exporting toys to Saudi Arabia, the G-mark (Gulf Conformity Mark) certification is a mandatory market access requirement.
What is the G-mark?
The G-mark is a mandatory product conformity mark established by the Gulf Standardization Organization (GSO) for specific product categories. It indicates that the product complies with the essential health, safety, and environmental requirements of the Gulf Technical Regulations (GTRs).
This certification is valid in all seven GCC member states, which include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, and Yemen.
Which toys require G-mark certification?
All products designed or intended for use by children under 14 years of age fall under the scope. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Plastic toys, plush/stuffed toys
- Electric/electronic toys
- Construction/assembly toys
Regardless of whether the product is battery-operated or mains-powered, it must comply with the technical regulation.
Certification Process and Core Requirements
- Appoint a Notified Body: You must engage a GSO‑authorized Notified Body (conformity assessment body) to carry out the assessment and issue the certificate.
- Product Testing: The product must be tested according to the relevant standards. Commonly used standards for toys include the EN 71 series, ISO 8124 series, and for electric toys, EN 62115 / IEC 62115 also apply.
- Prepare Technical Documentation: A comprehensive technical file must be compiled, typically including:
- Product specifications, design drawings
- Test reports from an ISO/IEC 17025‑accredited laboratory
- Risk assessment report
- Draft product labelling
- Declaration of Conformity (DoC)
- Obtain the Certificate and Register: Upon successful review, the Notified Body issues the G‑mark certificate and registers it in the GSO database.
Marking Requirements (GCTS)
After certification, the product must bear the GSO Conformity Tracking Symbol (GCTS), which consists of the G‑mark logo and a QR code.
Strict rules apply:
- Application method: The mark must be permanently affixed (e.g., moulded, engraved, or printed) directly on the product – adhesive stickers are not acceptable.
- Minimum size: The height of the mark must be at least 5 mm.
- Clarity and durability: It must be clearly visible, legible, and not removable under normal conditions.
Certificate Validity
The G‑mark certificate is generally valid for 3 years. However, for toys, two types of certificates exist:
- G‑mark Type Certification – valid for 5 years, applied for by the manufacturer.
- G‑mark Conformity Certificate – valid for a single shipment only, applied for by the importer in specific cases.
Special Requirements for Saudi Arabia
In addition to the G‑mark certification, exports to Saudi Arabia must also go through the SABER electronic platform in two steps:
- Product Conformity Certificate (PCoC) – the G‑mark certificate must be submitted as technical evidence.
- Shipment Conformity Certificate (SCoC) – for each individual import shipment, an SCoC must be obtained for customs clearance.
Important Reminders
- Plan ahead: The certification review and issuance usually take 5–10 working days, but testing and documentation preparation may require significantly more time – start early.
- Seek professional assistance: The G‑mark process is highly technical. It is strongly recommended to contact a GSO‑authorized Notified Body for the most current and tailored guidance.
- Stay updated on regulations: Technical requirements and procedures may change. Always refer to the latest official information from GSO and SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization).
